Foundations completed on "world's fastest track"

New images released by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) show the completion of the foundations of the "world's fastest track" - the London 2012 Velodrome.

Construction work on the velodrome began on schedule in March and more than 100 workers are now on site. The Velodrome is being built on the site of the former West Ham tip and more than 900 piles have now been driven up to 26 metres beneath the ground to complete the foundations of the venue. Work to construct the concrete base structure of the velodrome is a third of the way through and the first above-ground columns of the velodrome structure will start to appear in late June.

The 6,000 seat velodrome will host the Olympic and Paralympic indoor track cycling events in 2012. After the Games the Lee Valley Park Regional Authority (LVRPA) will own, manage and fund the VeloPark, creating a world class attraction which will be used by elite athletes and the local community. The legacy Velodrome will include a café, bike hire and cycle workshop facilities, and includes a 360 degree concourse level offering fantastic views over the Olympic Park, and out to the London skyline.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: “Completing the foundations of the Velodrome is a significant milestone and takes us a step closer to delivering a record-breaking venue for 2012 and a world-class cycling legacy for London. I look forward to seeing the striking architecture of the Velodrome continue to take shape over the coming months and begin to make its mark on the Olympic Park skyline.”

Sebastian Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee, said: “Britain leads the way in world cycling and deserves a world-class stage in 2012 so the laying of the Velodrome foundations is a significant milestone. Our Velodrome plans are driven by legacy and we are aiming for this to not only be a venue where records are broken and the British gold-rush continues in 2012, but a breeding-ground for new generation of cyclists of all ages and abilities.”